Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 White
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White are both linear switches, offering unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro stands out for its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 White from Gateron's G Pro series is designed for delicate typists with its incredibly light actuation force of 38g, allowing for effortless and sensitive keystrokes. While the Crystal Pro is known for its bouncy and polished feel, the G Pro White is described as clacky, creamy, and easy-to-press. Both switches offer their own set of advantages, making them appealing choices for different typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
48g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
20mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
Both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White feature a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this common feature, the overall typing experience may still differ due to other housing materials used.
In contrast to their similar polycarbonate top housings, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White diverge in their bottom housing materials. The V3 Crystal Pro utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which maintains the sharp and crisp sound profile associated with polycarbonate. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 White features a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate.
Overall, the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White contribute significantly to the sound and feel of these switches. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing for a similar sound profile, the use of different bottom housing materials - polycarbonate for the V3 Crystal Pro and nylon for the G Pro 3.0 White - can result in distinct typing experiences. Ultimately, understanding how each housing material impacts the sound and feel of a switch can help users choose the one that best suits their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch, it is evident that the G Pro 3.0 White is lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out force. The G Pro 3.0 White has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option compared to the V3 Crystal Pro, which has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the G Pro 3.0 White offers a more effortless typing experience for those who prefer lighter switches, while the V3 Crystal Pro provides a more substantial typing experience with a firmer push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference, with the G Pro 3.0 White being ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience and the V3 Crystal Pro suited for individuals who prefer a heavier actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch. The difference of 0.2 mm may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the switches. With a shorter travel distance, the V3 Crystal Pro may provide a quicker response time, making it a preferred choice for gamers who value speed. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 White offers a slightly longer travel distance, which can provide a more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a bit more depth in their key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing or gaming experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 White for $3.27.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a chirpy sound with a unique squeak, setting it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch provides a clacky sound, producing sharp and snappy feedback when pressed. The G Pro White also offers a neutral sound profile, suitable for various uses, and a subdued sound signature that is more subtle compared to most switches. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a bouncy sensation with a spring-like feedback, giving a lively feel and rebound when pressed. It also provides a polished finish for a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch offers a creamy and buttery typing experience, likely due to factory lubrication or specific materials used. It also provides an easy-to-press feel with gentle resistance, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the G Pro White offers a feathery light touch and a mild typing experience suitable for most users seeking a safe middle-ground feel.
In conclusion, both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The V3 Crystal Pro delivers a chirpy sound and bouncy feel, while the G Pro 3.0 White provides a clacky sound and creamy feel. Depending on your preference for sound and tactile feedback, you can choose between the two switches to enhance your typing experience. Remember to consider other factors such as keycaps and keyboard build when evaluating the overall typing feel and sound signature. Ultimately, both switches offer distinctive characteristics that cater to different preferences, so you can expect similar results in terms of quality and performance.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch, consider the intended use and your personal preferences. Choose the Akko V3 Crystal Pro if you prefer a medium bottom out force, a bright and chirpy sound signature, and a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, opt for the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White if you prefer a light bottom out force, a bright RGB lighting experience, and either a clacky, neutral, or subdued sound profile paired with a creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, mild, silky, or subtle typing feel. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your needs and preferences.
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